Idle Testing

For idle testing, we booted up the system, allowed the CPU to stabilized at ~0% usage, and then tested for at least 10 minutes, and we used RealTemp to record the CPU temperatures once the temperatures were stable. We tested two different conditions of the i5-2500K, the first is completely stock and default settings, and the second is overclocked to 3.8GHz and 1.26V. The single temperature recorded was the average between the four cores.

Load Testing

For our load tests, we used Prime95 to stress the CPU to 100%, and let it run that way until the temperatures became stable (allowing 15 minutes minimum), and then used RealTemp to record the temperatures. We tested two different conditions of the i5-2500K, the first is completely stock and default settings, and the second is overclocked to 3.8GHz and 1.26V. The single value recorded is the average temperature of the four cores.

Results

The Freezer i30 performs admirably, and comes fairly close to matching Cooler Master's new high-end cooler, the TPC 812. Considering the 320W TDP rating is plenty for most typical users and overclockers, a few things work in favor of the Freezer i30. First of all, the fan included with the Freezer i30 is much much quieter, although you do not have the option of adding a second for push-pull. The MX-4 thermal paste is also a nice touch, and is much better than the paste which ships with many other coolers. And last, but certainly not least, is that Freezer i30 may be found for as low as $40 from reputable online retailers, which is a whopping $30 cheaper than the TPC 812, which in itself holds a high value in the high-end segment. The Freezer i30 definitely has a high level of bang-for-your-buck, and if you aren't planning on pushing your CPU too hard, the Freezer i30 just might be exactly what you're looking for.

Sub-50 degree Celsius performance for under $50 certainly strikes a nice value level, and although it falls behind a bit against the TPC 812, the better fan, much lower price, and inclusion of MX-4 thermal paste makes it a very appealing solution to light overclockers.